There are two main types of diabetes.
Type I Diabetes Mellitus is also known as insulin-dependent diabetes, juvenile diabetes, and juvenile-onset diabetes. Type I Diabetes typically occurs by age 12. The condition is due to inadequate insulin production by the pancreas. The onset of the disease is typically brought on by viral infection, autoimmune reactions, or genetic factors.
Type I Diabetes must be treated. Left untreated, Type I Diabetes can cause hyperglycemia and protein wasting. Dehydration is common in untreated diabetics. Long-term control can be achieved by a combination of blood monitoring (done at home), insulin injections, and careful adherence to a prescribed diet.
Type I Diabetes can affect the small blood vessels resulting in damage to the retinas, kidneys, and extremities as blood flow is restricted. Untreated diabetics can experience blurred vision, irritability, nausea, vomiting, blindness, wounds that won't heal, and, after long-term lack of treatment, coma and death.
Type II Diabetes Mellitus is also known as non-insulin-dependent diabetes, adult-onset diabetes, and maturity-onset diabetes. It is usually diagnosed between the ages of 50 and 60. The onset of Type II Diabetes is gradual and can be treated, in most instances, with a carefully controlled diet. Obesity, pregnancy, and genetics play a role in the onset of Type II Diabetes.
Type II Diabetes is typically tested for by conducting a glucose tolerancy test. During the test, the patient consumes a highly-sugared beverage. Throughout the test--lasting from six to eight hours--the blood levels are checked to determine how the body is metabolizing the sugars.
If left untreated or ignored, Type II Diabetes can result in arterial damage, arteriosclerosis, heart attack, or stroke.
If you suspect that you or someone you know is an undiagnosed diabetic, it is important to get tested and treated. Contact your physician immediately if your condition changes or additional symptoms develop.
For additional information about diabetes, treatments, support groups, and dietary information, the following links may prove useful:
|
